1
|
Jaglan A, Bhatia S, Martin G, Sunagar K. The Royal Armoury: Venomics and antivenomics of king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) from the Indian Western Ghats. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126708. [PMID: 37673142 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite being famous as 'the king' of the snake world, the king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) has remained a mysterious species, particularly with respect to its venom ecology. In contrast, venom research has largely focussed on the 'big four' snakes that are greatly responsible for the burden of snakebite in the Indian subcontinent. This study aims to bridge the current void in our understanding of the O. hannah venom by investigating its proteomic, biochemical, pharmacological, and toxinological profiles via interdisciplinary approaches. Considering their physical resemblance, the king cobra is often compared to the spectacled cobra (Naja naja). Comparative venomics of O. hannah and N. naja in this study provided interesting insights into their venom compositions, activities, and potencies. Our findings suggest that the O. hannah venom, despite being relatively less complex than the N. naja venom, is equally potent. Finally, our in vitro and in vivo assays revealed that both Indian polyvalent and Thai Red Cross monovalent antivenoms completely fail to neutralise the O. hannah venom. Our findings provide guidelines for the management of bites from this clinically important yet neglected snake species in India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anurag Jaglan
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Siddharth Bhatia
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Gerard Martin
- The Liana Trust, Survey #1418/1419 Rathnapuri, Hunsur 571189, Karnataka, India
| | - Kartik Sunagar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Corrales Ramírez LC, Caycedo Lozano L, Quijano Duarte S. Catalisis, enzimas y pruebas rápidas. NOVA 2022. [DOI: 10.22490/24629448.6591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Un gran número de los procesos metabólicos y biológicos son catalizados por enzimas; las enzimas son compuestos químicos orgánicos que pertenecen al grupo específico de las biomoléculas denominadas proteínas. Las enzimas poseen en su estructura molecular cuaternaria, organizaciones internas que permiten definir un lugar denominado centro activo; su función química, cinética y termodinámica se relacionan con la disminución de la energía de activación en el curso de la reacción neta.
Los mecanismos de reacción enzimáticos que suceden en las interacciones metabólicas de los microorganismos han permitido desarrollar una serie de pruebas cualitativas que determinan la presencia o ausencia de bacterias en una muestra o un cultivo haciendo uso de técnicas rápidas que facilitan el diagnóstico clínico.
Collapse
|
3
|
Senji Laxme RR, Khochare S, Attarde S, Kaur N, Jaikumar P, Shaikh NY, Aharoni R, Primor N, Hawlena D, Moran Y, Sunagar K. The Middle Eastern Cousin: Comparative Venomics of Daboia palaestinae and Daboia russelii. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14110725. [PMID: 36355975 PMCID: PMC9696752 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14110725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the medically most important snakes in the world, the species belonging to the genus Daboia have been attributed to the highest number of human envenomings, deaths and disabilities. Given their significant clinical relevance, the venoms of Russell's vipers (D. russelii and D. siamensis) have been the primary focus of research. In contrast, the composition, activity, ecology and evolution of venom of its congener, the Palestine viper (D. palaestinae), have remained largely understudied. Therefore, to unravel the factors responsible for the enhanced medical relevance of D. russelii in comparison to D. palaestinae, we comparatively evaluated their venom proteomes, biochemical activities, and mortality and morbidity inflicting potentials. Furthermore, the synthesis and regulation of venom in snakes have also remained underinvestigated, and the relative contribution of each venom gland remains unclear. We address this knowledge gap by sequencing the tissue transcriptomes of both venom glands of D. palaestinae, and comparatively evaluating their contribution to the secreted venom concoction. Our findings highlight the disparity in the venom composition, function and toxicities of the two Daboia species. We also show that toxin production is not partitioned between the two venom glands of D. palaestinae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. R. Senji Laxme
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Suyog Khochare
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Saurabh Attarde
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Navneet Kaur
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Priyanka Jaikumar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Naeem Yusuf Shaikh
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Reuven Aharoni
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Naftali Primor
- Shulov Institute of Science, 10 Oppenheimer Street, Science Park, Rehovot 7670110, Israel
| | - Dror Hawlena
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Yehu Moran
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
- Correspondence: (Y.M.); (K.S.)
| | - Kartik Sunagar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
- Correspondence: (Y.M.); (K.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Garcia Gonzalez J, Hernandez FJ. Nuclease activity: an exploitable biomarker in bacterial infections. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2022; 22:265-294. [PMID: 35240900 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2022.2049249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the increasingly challenging field of clinical microbiology, diagnosis is a cornerstone whose accuracy and timing are crucial for the successful management, therapy, and outcome of infectious diseases. Currently employed biomarkers of infectious diseases define the scope and limitations of diagnostic techniques. As such, expanding the biomarker catalog is crucial to address unmet needs and bring about novel diagnostic functionalities and applications. AREAS COVERED This review describes the extracellular nucleases of 15 relevant bacterial pathogens and discusses the potential use of nuclease activity as a diagnostic biomarker. Articles were searched for in PubMed using terms: "nuclease", "bacteria", "nuclease activity" or "biomarker". For overview sections, original and review articles between 2000 and 2019 were searched for using terms: "infections", "diagnosis", "bacterial", "burden", "challenges". Informative articles were selected. EXPERT OPINION Using the catalytic activity of nucleases offers new possibilities compared to established biomarkers. Nucleic acid activatable reporters in combination with different transduction platforms and delivery methods can be used to detect disease-associated nuclease activity patterns in vitro and in vivo for prognostic and diagnostic applications. Even when these patterns are not obvious or of unknown etiology, screening platforms could be used to identify new disease reporters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Garcia Gonzalez
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Linköping, Sweden.,Nucleic Acids Technologies Laboratory (NAT-lab), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Frank J Hernandez
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Linköping, Sweden.,Nucleic Acids Technologies Laboratory (NAT-lab), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Castaneda-Alvarez C, Prodan S, Zamorano A, San-Blas E, Aballay E. Xenorhabdus lircayensis sp. nov., the symbiotic bacterium associated with the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema unicornum. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2021; 71. [PMID: 34898417 DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.005151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Xenorhabdus is a symbiotic group of bacteria associated with entomopathogenic nematodes of the family Steinernematidae. Although the described Steirnernema species list is extensive, not all their symbiotic bacteria have been identified. One single motile, Gram-negative and non-spore-forming rod-shaped symbiotic bacterium, strain VLST, was isolated from the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema unicornum. Analyses of the 16S rRNA gene determined that the VLST isolate belongs to the genus Xenorhabdus, and its closest related species is Xenorhabdus szentirmaii DSM 16338T (98.2 %). Deeper analyses using the whole genome for phylogenetic reconstruction indicate that VLST exhibits a unique clade in the genus. Genomic comparisons considering digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values confirms this result, showing that the VLST values are distant enough from the 70 % threshold suggested for new species, sharing 30.7, 30.5 and 30.3 % dDDH with Xenorhabdus khoisanae MCB, Xenorhabdus koppenhoeferi DSM 18168T and Xenorhabdus miraniensis DSM 18168T, respectively, as the closest species. Detailed physiological, biochemical and chemotaxonomic tests of the VLST isolate reveal consistent differences from previously described Xenorhabdus species. Phylogenetic, physiological, biochemical and chemotaxonomic approaches show that VLST represents a new species of the genus Xenorhabdus, for which the name Xenorhabdus lircayensis sp. nov. (type strain VLST=CCCT 20.04T=DSM 111583T) is proposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Castaneda-Alvarez
- Departamento de Sanidad Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias Agronómicas, Universidad de Chile, Chile.,Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Silvoagropecuarias y Veterinarias, Campus Sur Universidad de Chile, Santa Rosa 11315, La Pintana, Santiago, CP: 8820808, Chile
| | - Simona Prodan
- Departamento de Sanidad Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias Agronómicas, Universidad de Chile, Chile
| | - Alan Zamorano
- Departamento de Sanidad Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias Agronómicas, Universidad de Chile, Chile
| | - Ernesto San-Blas
- Instituto de Ciencias Agroalimentarias, Animales y Ambientales (ICA3), Universidad de O'Higgins, O'Higgins, Chile
| | - Erwin Aballay
- Departamento de Sanidad Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias Agronómicas, Universidad de Chile, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Attarde S, Khochare S, Iyer A, Dam P, Martin G, Sunagar K. Venomics of the Enigmatic Andaman Cobra ( Naja sagittifera) and the Preclinical Failure of Indian Antivenoms in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:768210. [PMID: 34759827 PMCID: PMC8573199 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.768210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are an abode to a diversity of flora and fauna, including the many endemic species of snakes, such as the elusive Andaman cobra (Naja sagittifera). However, the ecology and evolution of venomous snakes inhabiting these islands have remained entirely uninvestigated. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by investigating the evolutionary history of N. sagittifera and its venom proteomic, biochemical and toxicity profile. Phylogenetic reconstructions confirmed the close relationship between N. sagittifera and the Southeast Asian monocellate cobra (N. kaouthia). Overlooking this evolutionary history, a polyvalent antivenom manufactured using the venom of the spectacled cobra (N. naja) from mainland India is used for treating N. sagittifera envenomations. Comparative evaluation of venoms of these congeners revealed significant differences in their composition, functions and potencies. Given the close phylogenetic relatedness between N. sagittifera and N. kaouthia, we further assessed the cross-neutralising efficacy of Thai monovalent N. kaouthia antivenom against N. sagittifera venoms. Our findings revealed the inadequate preclinical performance of the Indian polyvalent and Thai monovalent antivenoms in neutralising N. sagittifera venoms. Moreover, the poor efficacy of the polyvalent antivenom against N. naja venom from southern India further revealed the critical need to manufacture region-specific Indian antivenoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Attarde
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Suyog Khochare
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Ashwin Iyer
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Paulomi Dam
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | | | - Kartik Sunagar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen of significant concern to susceptible patient populations. This pathogen can cause nosocomial and community-acquired respiratory and bloodstream infections and various other infections in humans. Sources include water, plant rhizospheres, animals, and foods. Studies of the genetic heterogeneity of S. maltophilia strains have identified several new genogroups and suggested adaptation of this pathogen to its habitats. The mechanisms used by S. maltophilia during pathogenesis continue to be uncovered and explored. S. maltophilia virulence factors include use of motility, biofilm formation, iron acquisition mechanisms, outer membrane components, protein secretion systems, extracellular enzymes, and antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. S. maltophilia is intrinsically drug resistant to an array of different antibiotics and uses a broad arsenal to protect itself against antimicrobials. Surveillance studies have recorded increases in drug resistance for S. maltophilia, prompting new strategies to be developed against this opportunist. The interactions of this environmental bacterium with other microorganisms are being elucidated. S. maltophilia and its products have applications in biotechnology, including agriculture, biocontrol, and bioremediation.
Collapse
|
8
|
Remarkable intrapopulation venom variability in the monocellate cobra (Naja kaouthia) unveils neglected aspects of India's snakebite problem. J Proteomics 2021; 242:104256. [PMID: 33957314 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2021.104256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Interpopulation venom variation has been widely documented in snakes across large geographical distances. This variability is known to markedly influence the effectiveness of snakebite therapy, as antivenoms manufactured against one population may not be effective against others. In contrast, the extent of intrapopulation venom variability, especially at finer geographical scales, remains largely uninvestigated. Moreover, given the historical focus on the 'big four' Indian snakes, our understanding of venom variation in medically important yet neglected snakes, such as the monocellate cobra (Naja kaouthia), remains unclear. To address this shortcoming, we investigated N. kaouthia venoms sampled across a small spatial scale (<50 km) in Eastern India. An interdisciplinary approach employed in this study unveiled considerable intrapopulation differences in the venom proteomic composition, pharmacological and biochemical activities, and toxicity profiles. Documentation of stark differences in venoms at such a finer geographical scale, despite the influence of similar ecological and environmental conditions, is intriguing. Furthermore, evaluation of in vitro and in vivo venom recognition and neutralisation potential of Indian polyvalent 'big four' antivenoms and Thai monovalent N. kaouthia antivenom revealed concerning deficiencies. These results highlight the negative impact of phylogenetic divergence and intrapopulation snake venom variation on the effectiveness of conventional antivenom therapy. SIGNIFICANCE: In contrast to our understanding of snake venom variation across large distances, which is theorised to be shaped by disparities in ecology and environment, intrapopulation variation at finer geographic scales remains scarcely investigated. Assessment of intrapopulation venom variability in Naja kaouthia at a small spatial scale (<50 km) in Eastern India unravelled considerable differences in venom compositions, activities and potencies. While the influence of subtle differences in prey preference and local adaptations cannot be ruled out, these findings, perhaps, also emphasise the role of accelerated molecular evolutionary regimes that rapidly introduce variations in evolutionarily younger lineages, such as advanced snakes. The inability of 'big four' Indian antivenoms and Thai N. kaouthia monovalent antivenom in countering these variations highlights the importance of phylogenetic considerations for the development of efficacious snakebite therapy. Thus, we provide valuable insights into the venoms of one of the most medically important yet neglected Indian snakes.
Collapse
|
9
|
Senji Laxme RR, Khochare S, Attarde S, Suranse V, Iyer A, Casewell NR, Whitaker R, Martin G, Sunagar K. Biogeographic venom variation in Russell's viper (Daboia russelii) and the preclinical inefficacy of antivenom therapy in snakebite hotspots. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009247. [PMID: 33764996 PMCID: PMC7993602 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakebite in India results in over 58,000 fatalities and a vast number of morbidities annually. The majority of these clinically severe envenomings are attributed to Russell's viper (Daboia russelii), which has a near pan-India distribution. Unfortunately, despite its medical significance, the influence of biogeography on the composition and potency of venom from disparate D. russelii populations, and the repercussions of venom variation on the neutralisation efficacy of marketed Indian antivenoms, remain elusive. METHODS Here, we employ an integrative approach comprising proteomic characterisation, biochemical analyses, pharmacological assessment, and venom toxicity profiling to elucidate the influence of varying ecology and environment on the pan-Indian populations of D. russelii. We then conducted in vitro venom recognition experiments and in vivo neutralisation assays to evaluate the efficacy of the commercial Indian antivenoms against the geographically disparate D. russelii populations. FINDINGS We reveal significant intraspecific variation in the composition, biochemical and pharmacological activities and potencies of D. russelii venoms sourced from five distinct biogeographic zones across India. Contrary to our understanding of the consequences of venom variation on the effectiveness of snakebite therapy, commercial antivenom exhibited surprisingly similar neutralisation potencies against the majority of the investigated populations, with the exception of low preclinical efficacy against the semi-arid population from northern India. However, the ability of Indian antivenoms to counter the severe morbid effects of Daboia envenoming remains to be evaluated. CONCLUSION The concerning lack of antivenom efficacy against the north Indian population of D. russelii, as well as against two other 'big four' snake species in nearby locations, underscores the pressing need to develop pan-India effective antivenoms with improved efficacy in high snakebite burden locales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. R. Senji Laxme
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Suyog Khochare
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Saurabh Attarde
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Vivek Suranse
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Ashwin Iyer
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Nicholas R. Casewell
- Centre for Snakebite Research & Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Romulus Whitaker
- Madras Crocodile Bank Trust/Centre for Herpetology. East Coast Road, Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Gerard Martin
- The Liana Trust. Survey #1418/1419 Rathnapuri, Hunsur, Karnataka, India
| | - Kartik Sunagar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Senji Laxme RR, Attarde S, Khochare S, Suranse V, Martin G, Casewell NR, Whitaker R, Sunagar K. Biogeographical venom variation in the Indian spectacled cobra (Naja naja) underscores the pressing need for pan-India efficacious snakebite therapy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009150. [PMID: 33600405 PMCID: PMC7924803 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Snake venom composition is dictated by various ecological and environmental factors, and can exhibit dramatic variation across geographically disparate populations of the same species. This molecular diversity can undermine the efficacy of snakebite treatments, as antivenoms produced against venom from one population may fail to neutralise others. India is the world’s snakebite hotspot, with 58,000 fatalities and 140,000 morbidities occurring annually. Spectacled cobra (Naja naja) and Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii) are known to cause the majority of these envenomations, in part due to their near country-wide distributions. However, the impact of differing ecologies and environment on their venom compositions has not been comprehensively studied. Methods Here, we used a multi-disciplinary approach consisting of venom proteomics, biochemical and pharmacological analyses, and in vivo research to comparatively analyse N. naja venoms across a broad region (>6000 km; seven populations) covering India’s six distinct biogeographical zones. Findings By generating the most comprehensive pan-Indian proteomic and toxicity profiles to date, we unveil considerable differences in the composition, pharmacological effects and potencies of geographically-distinct venoms from this species and, through the use of immunological assays and preclinical experiments, demonstrate alarming repercussions on antivenom therapy. We find that commercially-available antivenom fails to effectively neutralise envenomations by the pan-Indian populations of N. naja, including a complete lack of neutralisation against the desert Naja population. Conclusion Our findings highlight the significant influence of ecology and environment on snake venom composition and potency, and stress the pressing need to innovate pan-India effective antivenoms to safeguard the lives, limbs and livelihoods of the country’s 200,000 annual snakebite victims. Annually, India is burdened by the highest number of snake envenomations across the globe, with over 58,000 fatalities and three times the number of morbidities, predominantly affecting the rural agrarian communities. The spectacled cobra (Naja naja) and Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii) are responsible for the vast majority of envenomations in the country, in part, due to their near country-wide distributions. In this study, we unveil the astounding differences in venom composition of N. naja from six different biogeographical zones across the country (>6000 km). We provide a comprehensive account of their disparate venom proteomic profiles, biochemical and pharmacological effects, and the associated potencies. Our study uncovers alarming differences in the efficacy of the marketed polyvalent antivenoms in neutralising these venoms, thereby, emphasising the pressing need to develop dose-efficacious and pan-India effective antivenoms for the treatment of snakebites in the country. This study also highlights the significant influence of ecology and diverse environments on the venom variability, insinuating the necessity for innovating cost-effective and pan-India efficacious solutions to safeguard the lives, limbs and livelihoods of India’s two hundred thousand annual snakebite victims.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. R. Senji Laxme
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Saurabh Attarde
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Suyog Khochare
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Vivek Suranse
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Gerard Martin
- The Liana Trust, Survey #1418/1419 Rathnapuri, Hunsur, Karnataka, India
| | - Nicholas R. Casewell
- Centre for Snakebite Research & Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Romulus Whitaker
- Madras Crocodile Bank Trust/Centre for Herpetology, Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kartik Sunagar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Beyond the 'big four': Venom profiling of the medically important yet neglected Indian snakes reveals disturbing antivenom deficiencies. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007899. [PMID: 31805055 PMCID: PMC6894822 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Snakebite in India causes the highest annual rates of death (46,000) and disability (140,000) than any other country. Antivenom is the mainstay treatment of snakebite, whose manufacturing protocols, in essence, have remained unchanged for over a century. In India, a polyvalent antivenom is produced for the treatment of envenomations from the so called ‘big four’ snakes: the spectacled cobra (Naja naja), common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii), and saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus). In addition to the ‘big four’, India is abode to many other species of venomous snakes that have the potential to inflict severe clinical or, even, lethal envenomations in their human bite victims. Unfortunately, specific antivenoms are not produced against these species and, instead, the ‘big four’ antivenom is routinely used for the treatment. Methods We characterized the venom compositions, biochemical and pharmacological activities and toxicity profiles (mouse model) of the major neglected yet medically important Indian snakes (E. c. sochureki, B. sindanus, B. fasciatus, and two populations of N. kaouthia) and their closest ‘big four’ congeners. By performing WHO recommended in vitro and in vivo preclinical assays, we evaluated the efficiencies of the commercially marketed Indian antivenoms in recognizing venoms and neutralizing envenomations by these neglected species. Findings As a consequence of dissimilar ecologies and diet, the medically important snakes investigated exhibited dramatic inter- and intraspecific differences in their venom profiles. Currently marketed antivenoms were found to exhibit poor dose efficacy and venom recognition potential against the ‘neglected many’. Premium Serums antivenom failed to neutralise bites from many of the neglected species and one of the ‘big four’ snakes (North Indian population of B. caeruleus). Conclusions This study unravels disturbing deficiencies in dose efficacy and neutralisation capabilities of the currently marketed Indian antivenoms, and emphasises the pressing need to develop region-specific snakebite therapy for the ‘neglected many’. Snakebite is a ‘neglected tropical disease’ that majorly affects the rural populations in developing countries. India bears the brunt of snakebites with over 46,000 deaths and 140,000 disabilities, annually. A significant number of these bites are attributed to the widely distributed ‘big four’ snakes, namely spectacled cobra (Naja naja), common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii), and saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus). The commercial antivenoms marketed in India are only manufactured against these four species, while neglecting many other medically relevant snakes with restricted geographic distribution. Snakebite pathology is dependent on the venom composition of the population/species, which can, in turn, vary intra- and inter-specifically. Though this variation severely limits the cross-population/species antivenom efficacy, envenomations by the neglected snakes in India are treated with the ‘big four’ antivenom. Therefore, to unravel the underlying venom variability, we investigated venom proteomic, biochemical/pharmacological and toxicity profiles of the major neglected Indian snakes and their ‘big four’ relatives. To assess the effectiveness of the ‘big four’ antivenom in treating bites from these neglected snakes, we performed preclinical experiments, which revealed alarming inadequacies of the commercial antivenoms. Our findings accentuate the compelling necessity for the innovation of highly efficacious next-generation snakebite therapy in India.
Collapse
|
12
|
Funck GD, Marques JDL, Cruxen CEDS, Sehn CP, Haubert L, Dannenberg GDS, Klajn VM, Silva WP, Fiorentini ÂM. Probiotic potential of Lactobacillus curvatusP99 and viability in fermented oat dairy beverage. J FOOD PROCESS PRES 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.14286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Graciele Daiana Funck
- Department of Agroindustrial Science and Technology Federal University of Pelotas Pelotas Brazil
| | | | | | - Carla Pohl Sehn
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Reviews Applied to Bioactive Molecules – LaftamBio Pampa Federal University of Pampa Itaqui Brazil
| | - Louise Haubert
- Technology Development Center Federal University of Pelotas Pelotas Brazil
| | | | - Vera Maria Klajn
- Farroupilha Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology Santa Rosa Brazil
| | - Wladimir Padilha Silva
- Department of Agroindustrial Science and Technology Federal University of Pelotas Pelotas Brazil
- Technology Development Center Federal University of Pelotas Pelotas Brazil
| | - Ângela Maria Fiorentini
- Department of Agroindustrial Science and Technology Federal University of Pelotas Pelotas Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Selection of native bacterial starter culture in the production of fermented meat sausages: Application potential, safety aspects, and emerging technologies. Food Res Int 2019; 122:371-382. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2019.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 04/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
14
|
Mozioğlu E, Akyürek S, Gündüz S, Akgoz M, Gören AC, Kocagöz T. Oligomer based real-time detection of microorganisms producing nuclease enzymes. Analyst 2019; 144:1379-1385. [PMID: 30569044 DOI: 10.1039/c8an02129e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we provide a method using fluorescently labeled oligonucleotides for the diagnosis of microorganisms producing nucleases in real time, while growing them in culture media. The detection of such microorganisms was possible in a short period of time, as short as 10 minutes up to a maximum of 8 hours, depending on the bacterial density. We also showed the suitability of this new method for determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in culture media in a very short period of time, compared to conventional methods. We believe that it can make a significant contribution to gain new insights for analysis of complex materials such as clinical samples, food samples and environmental samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erkan Mozioğlu
- Bioanalysis Laboratory, Chemistry Group, National Metrology Institute, The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK-UME), Gebze, Turkey. and Medical Biotechnology Program, School of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sema Akyürek
- Bioanalysis Laboratory, Chemistry Group, National Metrology Institute, The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK-UME), Gebze, Turkey.
| | - Simay Gündüz
- Organic Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Group, National Metrology Institute, The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK-UME), Gebze, Turkey
| | - Muslum Akgoz
- Bioanalysis Laboratory, Chemistry Group, National Metrology Institute, The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK-UME), Gebze, Turkey.
| | - Ahmet C Gören
- Bioanalysis Laboratory, Chemistry Group, National Metrology Institute, The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK-UME), Gebze, Turkey. and Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tanıl Kocagöz
- Medical Biotechnology Program, School of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Paranjape SS, Shashidhar R. The ploidy of Vibrio cholerae is variable and is influenced by growth phase and nutrient levels. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2018; 364:4107777. [PMID: 28961807 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnx190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ploidy of Vibrio cholerae was quantified under different growth conditions. The V. cholerae was found to be (mero-) oligoploid or polyploid. The ploidy levels per cell were found to be growth phase regulated. The ploidy is highest during the early stationary phase (56-72 per cell) and lowest in the long-term starved state. In addition to growth phase, an external parameter such as nutrient level influences the ploidy, i.e. ploidy reduces rapidly at the onset of the starvation. The reduction is significant with P-value < 0.05 within 2 h of starvation. Even after prolonged starvation of 10 days, the ploidy number remained above 2 per cell. Failure to obtain a monoploid V. cholerae indicates that during starvation the genome is not distributed equally to daughter cells. The activity of DNase enzyme increased during starvation that decreased the ploidy. The ploidy was restored to the pre-starvation levels with nutrient supplementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shridhar S Paranjape
- Food Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai, India and Life Sciences, Homi Bhabha National Institute (DAE-Deemed University), Trombay, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Ravindranath Shashidhar
- Food Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai, India and Life Sciences, Homi Bhabha National Institute (DAE-Deemed University), Trombay, Mumbai 400094, India
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen C, Anwar N, Wu C, Fu G, Wang R, Zhang C, Wu Y, Sun C, Wu M. Halomonas endophytica sp. nov., isolated from liquid in the stems of Populus euphratica. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2018; 68:1633-1638. [DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.002585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Can Chen
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316000, PR China
| | - Nusratgul Anwar
- College of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830001, PR China
| | - Chen Wu
- Zhejiang University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Geyi Fu
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316000, PR China
| | - Ruijun Wang
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316000, PR China
| | - Choangya Zhang
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316000, PR China
| | - Yuehong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem and Biogeochemistry, Second Institute of Oceanography, State Oceanic Administration, Hangzhou 310012, PR China
| | - Cong Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, PR China
| | - Min Wu
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316000, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Song J, Hoa VM, Yoo J, Oh S, Im H, Park D, Lee G. A graphene oxide-based tool-kit capable of characterizing and classifying exonuclease activities. RSC Adv 2017. [DOI: 10.1039/c7ra00388a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Exonuclease kinetics and classification assay by graphene oxide-based fluorometric quenching.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jayeon Song
- Department of Biomedical Science and Engineering
- Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
- Gwangju
- Korea
| | - Vo Minh Hoa
- School of Life Sciences
- Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
- Gwangju
- Korea
| | - Jungmin Yoo
- School of Life Sciences
- Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
- Gwangju
- Korea
| | - Sanghoon Oh
- Department of Biomedical Science and Engineering
- Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
- Gwangju
- Korea
| | - Hyeryeon Im
- School of Life Sciences
- Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
- Gwangju
- Korea
| | - Daeho Park
- School of Life Sciences
- Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
- Gwangju
- Korea
| | - Gwangrog Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science and Engineering
- Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
- Gwangju
- Korea
- School of Life Sciences
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tran TM, MacIntyre A, Hawes M, Allen C. Escaping Underground Nets: Extracellular DNases Degrade Plant Extracellular Traps and Contribute to Virulence of the Plant Pathogenic Bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum. PLoS Pathog 2016; 12:e1005686. [PMID: 27336156 PMCID: PMC4919084 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant root border cells have been recently recognized as an important physical defense against soil-borne pathogens. Root border cells produce an extracellular matrix of protein, polysaccharide and DNA that functions like animal neutrophil extracellular traps to immobilize pathogens. Exposing pea root border cells to the root-infecting bacterial wilt pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum triggered release of DNA-containing extracellular traps in a flagellin-dependent manner. These traps rapidly immobilized the pathogen and killed some cells, but most of the entangled bacteria eventually escaped. The R. solanacearum genome encodes two putative extracellular DNases (exDNases) that are expressed during pathogenesis, suggesting that these exDNases contribute to bacterial virulence by enabling the bacterium to degrade and escape root border cell traps. We tested this hypothesis with R. solanacearum deletion mutants lacking one or both of these nucleases, named NucA and NucB. Functional studies with purified proteins revealed that NucA and NucB are non-specific endonucleases and that NucA is membrane-associated and cation-dependent. Single ΔnucA and ΔnucB mutants and the ΔnucA/B double mutant all had reduced virulence on wilt-susceptible tomato plants in a naturalistic soil-soak inoculation assay. The ΔnucA/B mutant was out-competed by the wild-type strain in planta and was less able to stunt root growth or colonize plant stems. Further, the double nuclease mutant could not escape from root border cells in vitro and was defective in attachment to pea roots. Taken together, these results demonstrate that extracellular DNases are novel virulence factors that help R. solanacearum successfully overcome plant defenses to infect plant roots and cause bacterial wilt disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuan Minh Tran
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - April MacIntyre
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Microbiology Doctoral Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Martha Hawes
- Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Caitilyn Allen
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhang S, Pan J, Lu W, Yan Y, Wang H, Wiegel J, Zhao B. Halomonas urumqiensis sp. nov., a moderately halophilic bacterium isolated from a saline-alkaline lake. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2016; 66:1962-1969. [PMID: 26873696 DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.000975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A moderately halophilic, aerobic bacterium, strain BZ-SZ-XJ27T, belonging to the genus Halomonas, was isolated from a saline-alkaline lake in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and a multilocus sequence analysis using the 16S rRNA, gyrB and rpoD genes demonstrated that strain BZ-SZ-XJ27T represents a member of the genus Halomonas. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, the closest relatives were Halomonas campaniensis 5AGT, H. fontilapidosi 5CRT, H. korlensis XK1T and H. sinaiensis ALO SharmT, with similarities of 96.2-97.2 %. DNA-DNA hybridization with H. korlensis CGMCC 1.6981T (the nearest phylogenetic neighbour) and H. campaniensis DSM 15293T (the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) showed relatedness values of 53 and 38 %, respectively, demonstrating the separateness of the three taxa. The bacterium stained Gram-negative and the cells were motile and rod-shaped. The strain formed creamy-white colonies and grew under optimal conditions of 1.42 M Na+ (range 0.22-4.32 M Na+), pH 8.0-8.5 (range pH 6.0-10.0) and 39 °C (range 4-43 °C). The dominant fatty acids were summed feature 8 (C18 : 1ω7c/C18 : 1ω6c; 36.6 %), C16 : 0 (25.9 %) and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c/C16 : 1ω6c; 21.2 %). The dominant polar lipids were two unknown phospholipids, phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerol, and the main respiratory quinones were ubiquinone 9 (Q-9; 89 %) and ubiquinone 8 (Q-8; 10 %). The genomic DNA G+C content was 61.7 ± 0.8 mol% (Tm). On the basis of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic features, strain BZ-SZ-XJ27T is proposed to represent a novel species, Halomonas urumqiensis sp. nov., within the genus Halomonas of the family Halomonadaceae. The type strain is BZ-SZ-XJ27T ( = JCM 30202T = CGMCC 1.12917T).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Zhang
- Graduate School, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Jiao Pan
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, PR China
| | - Weidong Lu
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, PR China
| | - Yanchun Yan
- Graduate School, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Haisheng Wang
- Graduate School, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Jurgen Wiegel
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 306021, USA
| | - Baisuo Zhao
- Graduate School, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Modified DNase tube test to detect DNase activity in Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. J Med Microbiol 2012; 61:1792-1794. [DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.049403-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
|
21
|
Brundin M, Figdor D, Roth C, Davies JK, Sundqvist G, Sjögren U. Persistence of dead-cell bacterial DNA in ex vivo root canals and influence of nucleases on DNA decay in vitro. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 110:789-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tripleo.2010.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2010] [Revised: 06/30/2010] [Accepted: 07/02/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|